Alcohol in Saudi Arabia: what are the rules for travelers?

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Alcohol — Saudi Arabia

What travelers need to know about alcohol in Saudi Arabia. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.

Short answer

Alcohol in Saudi Arabia: prohibited — what is legal at home can be a serious crime here.

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PROHIBITED

Alcohol is completely illegal in Saudi Arabia — importing, making, possessing, or drinking it is a serious crime that customs enforces strictly on all visitors.

Long jail sentences, heavy fines, public floggings, and deportation.

§ U.S. Department of State — Saudi Arabia

Verified Jul 11, 2026

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LawLert is an independent app and is not affiliated with any government. It summarizes laws from official government and U.S. State Department sources for general information only. This is not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm with official sources and local authorities before you travel.